Roy Krishna’s Vintage Performance Haunts Habas and Mohun Bagan as Odisha Triumph in ISL Semifinal First Leg-24 April
In a scorching battle under the blazing 40-degree heat of Bhubaneswar, Roy Krishna emerged as the towering figure amidst a field of wilted players. The 36-year-old veteran, standing at a modest 5 feet 7 inches, turned back the clock to haunt his former coach and team in a mesmerizing display that led Odisha to a 2-1 victory over Mohun Bagan in the first leg of the ISL semifinal.
Krishna’s dominance on the pitch was undeniable, overshadowing all others as he showcased his prowess and experience. Amidst the chaos of the intense contest, his performance stood out, with Odisha maintaining their fortress at the Kalinga Stadium, undefeated in the 13 games of the 2023-24 ISL season.
The match began in calamitous fashion for Sergio Lobera’s side, as their defensive lapses allowed Mohun Bagan to capitalize early on. Mourtada Fall and Amrinder Singh found themselves out of position from a corner kick just three minutes into the game, granting Manvir Singh an easy header to put Mohun Bagan ahead. The chaos continued as an Antonio Habas-led team, known for defensive solidity, appeared clueless in defending another corner, with Carlos Delgado finding the net from close range amidst a disorganized defense.
Despite the initial setback, Odisha found their rhythm, with Roy Krishna leading the charge. His vintage performance inspired his teammates, as Odisha fought back with determination and resilience. The 2-1 victory in the first leg of the semifinal showcased Odisha’s strength and character, setting the stage for an enthralling second leg.
As the ISL semifinal unfolds, Roy Krishna’s memorable display serves as a reminder of his enduring quality and impact on the game. With the spotlight firmly on him, Krishna’s performance not only secured a crucial win for Odisha but also etched his name in the annals of ISL history once again.